Get ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy dish that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy! This One Pot Alfredo Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a culinary embrace that combines the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with perfectly cooked fettuccine, all made in just 20 minutes! Whether you're a busy professional or a parent juggling a million tasks, this simple yet decadent recipe will become your go-to for satisfying cravings without the fuss. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to impress your family or guests with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place a large skillet or wide saucepan over medium heat and add butter, allowing it to melt completely and coat the bottom of the pan.
- Add fettuccine pasta and chicken broth to the skillet, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Spread the pasta evenly across the pan.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for approximately 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is almost tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir gently, allowing the cream to combine with the remaining broth and create a smooth base for the sauce.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to help the cheese melt and create a creamy, smooth sauce. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency and the pasta is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove from heat and let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to further thicken and coat the noodles.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, feel free to experiment with other pasta types like penne or farfalle for a fun twist!
- Don’t Skip the Butter: Melting the butter at the start not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the pasta from sticking together during cooking.
- Adjust the Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or even chicken broth for a slightly healthier option.
- Stir Frequently: To ensure even cooking and prevent sticking, make sure to stir the pasta every few minutes while it cooks in the broth.
- Taste as You Go: Every palate is different, so don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the pasta to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the sauce thicken and cling to the noodles better, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 576kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 19g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 23g
Cholesterol: 115mg
